Unit Five: Greatness

Essential Question: What drives us to think we are capable of being greater than ourselves and/or nature (God)?Stylistic focus: Syntax At this point, students should have a deep understanding of how one’s identity is shaped so it seems appropriate to take this notion of identity and make an extension. Throughout literature, it seems clear that there are those who believe that the pursuit of knowledge leads to a false sense of self. In this eight-week unit, students will explore the relationship between power and arrogance and how man is determined to be the greatest being in existence. Students will read both Brave New World and Frankenstein and will determine whether the pursuit of knowledge is a noble endeavor. Through classroom discussions, students will analyze the actions of these characters and decide whether humanity will ever be able to assume the responsibility that comes with knowledge.